Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) Transport

Safe. Compliant. Efficient Tote Handling Across North America

Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) play a critical role in moving liquid and granular materials across today’s supply chains — and MGA International Logistics provides the specialized expertise required to transport them safely, compliantly, and on schedule. Whether you’re shipping chemicals, food‑grade materials, industrial liquids, or regulated cargo, our team ensures every tote is handled with precision from pickup to delivery.

What Is IBC Transport?

IBC totes bridge the gap between small drums and large tank containers, offering a durable, reusable, and highly efficient way to move bulk materials. Standard totes hold 275–330 gallons, built with a rigid steel cage, integrated pallet base, and forklift‑friendly design — making them ideal for fast, secure loading and unloading.

MGA supports IBC movements across dry van, flatbed, intermodal, and specialized equipment, giving shippers flexible options tailored to their cargo type and regulatory requirements.

Why Shippers Choose MGA for IBC Moves

• Tanker‑endorsed drivers when required (aggregate volumes ≥ 1,000 gallons).
• Hazmat‑certified personnel for regulated materials.
• Strict compliance with UN/DOT retest, labeling, and closure procedures.
• Safe loading, securement, and movement using industry‑approved methods.
• North American coverage for local, regional, and long‑haul shipments.
• Intermodal truck‑to‑rail options for cost‑effective long‑distance moves.

Our IBC Transport Process

1. Pre‑Transport Inspection

Every tote is checked before loading to ensure safe transit:

• Structural integrity of cage, pallet base, and inner tank
• Proper torque on lids and fully sealed outlet valves
• Visible UN/DOT certification markings and retest dates
• Verification of “empty” or “residue last contained” status when applicable

2. Loading & Placement

We position totes for maximum stability:

• Centered weight distribution over axles
• Full pallet contact against bulkhead or cargo wall
• No stacking of full totes; empty units stacked only per manufacturer guidelines

3. Securing & Tie‑Down

IBC securement is performed using:

• Heavy‑duty ratchet straps over the metal cage
• Cross‑pattern or multi‑point restraint to prevent movement
• Optional bracing, airbags, or blocking for partial loads

4. Handling & Movement

Our teams use proper equipment and safe handling techniques:

• Full fork engagement beneath the 4‑way pallet base
• Slow, controlled movement on clear, level surfaces
• No side‑pinching or lifting that could damage the tote

5. Transit & Delivery

Whether moving totes by truck or rail, MGA ensures:

• Compliance with hazardous material regulations
• Proper venting procedures when pressure buildup is a concern
• Safe unloading with balanced, fully supported forklift placement

Industries We Support

• Chemicals & industrial liquids
• Agriculture & fertilizers
• Food & beverage ingredients
• Pharmaceuticals
• Manufacturing & processing
• Environmental & waste management

Safety & Compliance at Every Step

IBC totes can weigh thousands of pounds when full — and regulated cargo requires strict adherence to transport rules. MGA’s drivers, dispatchers, and compliance team work together to ensure:

• Proper tanker endorsement requirements
• Accurate documentation and labeling
• Securement that meets DOT and carrier standards
• Safe handling for hazardous and non‑hazardous materials

Your cargo moves with confidence, clarity, and full regulatory alignment.

Move Your IBC Freight With MGA

Whether you’re shipping a single tote or coordinating a multi‑pallet movement, MGA International Logistics provides dependable, knowledgeable support for every IBC transport.

Request an IBC Quote Move your bulk materials safely and efficiently.